Definition Heart valves are mechanical, functional closures between the atria, ventricles and large conduction pathways. They open during the pumping cycle of the heart to transport the blood in a specific direction. As in any body vessel, deposits can form in the area of the heart valves and narrow them. Colloquially, this is referred to … Calcified heart valve
Diagnosis In patients without symptoms, a calcified heart valve is usually discovered by chance during a visit to the doctor. During the examination with the stethoscope, the physician can hear valve noises characteristic of heart valve defects. If the examining physician notices a pathological valve noise, a referral to a cardiologist is usually made. The … Diagnosis | Calcified heart valve
Life expectancy Untreated, the prognosis of a calcified heart valve is unfavorable, since arteriosclerosis worsens as the disease progresses. Without treatment, the heart valve calcifies more and more until at some point complications occur, such as a stroke, cardiac arrhythmia or even sudden cardiac death. With the right therapy, life expectancy is hardly reduced. In … Life expectancy | Calcified heart valve